When it’s time to add new insulation to your home, the biggest question most homeowners have is: Should I remove my old insulation first? If it’s time for you to add in new insulation and you have the same question, then you’re in the right place. The answer is … well, it depends.
What Condition Is the Old Insulation In?
The condition of your old insulation is the most important determining factor in whether it needs to be removed before adding in new. Technically, you can put new insulation over old insulation, unless it is wet, according to ENERGY STAR®. This includes if your insulation appears to be wet currently or has previously been wet. Any wet insulation will need to be removed to avoid mold, mildew and potential rotting.
Other Factors to Consider
Some other factors to consider when determining if you should remove your old insulation or not are:
- The surrounding structure where the old insulation is placed. If the insulation has been previously damaged or wet, there could be damage to the surrounding structure. In most cases, it’s wise to remove it to ensure there’s no structural damage (or repair any damage that exists) before adding new insulation.
- Roll or batt insulation shouldn’t be installed on top of existing insulation if it has a vapor barrier to avoid trapping moisture.
- Blown loose-fill insulation, such as fiberglass and cellulose, can be installed on top of old insulation if old insulation is in good condition.
- If there is any vermiculite insulation in your attic, it should be tested first for harmful chemicals. If harmful chemicals are found, the vermiculite insulation should be removed before adding new insulation.
- It’s recommended to air seal before adding new insulation to prevent air leaks, decreased insulation performance, home comfort and energy efficiency.
Luckily, you don’t have to navigate this on your own. If you need to add new insulation and are unsure if you need to remove your old insulation first, reach out to the experts at MIG Building Systems. We can assess your current insulation and determine how much needs to be removed before we add your new insulation, if any.
To speak with a team member, call us at 888-397-0988 or reach out online!
